2024 Best Colleges that Accept the Common App in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,378 reviews

Alum: Overall, great education with some mishaps due to COVID and online learning. Positive atmosphere, very inclusive. I would like to see a change in how the grading system is designed - a-lot of my classes (mostly STEM) allowed students to fail and then curved everyones grades and I would rather the material be taught correctly and more comprehensively and have no curve needed at all. Loved the liberal arts classes I got to take! Lots of engaging discussions. The grounds around campus are absolutely beautiful and very well kept. There are tons of amazing places to study and relax.... Read 2,378 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  464 reviews

Other: Washington and Lee University (W&L) is truly one of the premier liberal arts colleges in the U.S. Niche ranks W&L higher than the famous northeast liberal arts colleges! Most notably, Washington Monthly ranks W&L as the 4th best liberal arts college - AHEAD of even Swarthmore, Williams, Amherst, etc.! Why? The personal attention students receive at W&L is actually incredible. To that, the training students receive is among the best in the world, combining an emphasis on leadership and community with elite academics. From this, W&L's shockingly powerful and close-knit alumni network is also incredible. W&L infamous Greek scene is also coming into a new age. The school is diversifying its student population in a fair, inclusive manner, which is loosening the dominance of Greek life, while broadening its social scene. Take a look at the schools leadership team to understand how and why. They're modernizing, while preserving the positive aspects of W&L's distinct student life.... Read 464 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $26,063

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,097 reviews

Junior: Virginia Tech is a wonderful academic institution. Where most schools excel in either academics or the college experience, VT is strong in both areas. The surrounding area is also very involved with Virginia Tech. While I have been at multiple colleges, I have returned to VT to finish my bachelor's and complete my master's degree! Take one visit and you will understand why everyone is so proud to be a Hokie. Be sure to also check out the dining halls. Virginia Techs' dining halls are incredible with the friendliest staff you could imagine! The culture at Virginia Tech is Work hard play hard! Students are self-motivated and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Come Friday night, the campus turns into the ultimate social hub. Most classmates of mine only left campus during the holiday breaks, as VT has everything you could want or need while on campus!... Read 4,097 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,588 reviews

Alum: Graduated in 2011, was the best college experience I could have hoped for! Made lifelong friends and discovered passion for history. I interned at Colonial Williamsburg and had some amazing public history courses where we traveled to historic sites and discussed primary sourced (and ate bbq!). Such a perfect campus size, it felt larger than other liberal arts schools but still super safe. I walked home alone at 3 am often. Was not part of the party scene, but was super social and my freshman dorm was where I made most of my friends. If I had one thing the criticize it would be support in finding a job post-graduation (this may have changed in the 10+ yrs since graduation). You have to be proactive about using the career center. They have a brand new online social community that I joined as an alumni and I think this will be a huge help to recent grads.... Read 1,588 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  764 reviews

Freshman: My experience at the University of Richmond has been one filled with incredibly understanding and motivating professors. Since my first semester I found that my mental health and well being in general has been put at the forefront and prioritized with accommodations regarding course work. There are a variety of activities, clubs, and sports that radiate inclusive and encouraging energy to any and all that join. There is constantly something to do on campus ranging from acapella performances , day of the dead celebrations, haunted houses, mechanical spider riding, just about anything! The resources on campus are also endless. There is a highly vocalized opportunity to engage in research alongside professors, and career services that help launch well prepared students into internships. Something that I would like to change around campus would perhaps be an upgrade in security. This meaning more patrol around the entrances of campus simply because it is so easy access to the public.... Read 764 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,179 reviews

Senior: James Madison University is a big school with a small school feel- wherever you are on campus there will be a new face but you'll probably see someone you know as well! The professors want to know you and help you accomplish your goals. The school is absolutely breathtaking and the people are super friendly. There are lots of different options to major in and the resources available at this school are phenomenal. This school does a wonderful job of preparing its students for post-grad life and has a great reputation for getting a job! The school spirit at JMU is really what drew me here in the first place. Current students and alumni are proud to be Dukes and they look out for each other when hiring. We also love our sports, our Marching Royal Dukes (MRDs), and supporting different events in and around the JMU/Harrisonburg community. Great outdoors and delicious eateries, breweries, wineries, and coffee shops nearby! Best school in the world! Go Dukes!... Read 3,179 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,668 reviews

Sophomore: Virginia Commonwealth University has been an adventure as a campus and university to learn under. The main aspects that differentiate VCU from most other universities in Virginia are the urban landscape, art forward movement, and the progressiveness of the university itself. I like the arty feel of the campus and university and I feel much more comfortable in this urban setting rather than the rural campuses like UVA. The campus can be accessed easily and is also very walkable. The main issues are the traffic and homeless people, but I don't find it much as a problem if you plan ahead, are generally cognizant, and kind. The programs and classes are exciting and not too unbearable. Though, I am a bit biased because my major is in psychology and I was not able to take most of the General Education classes due to my pre-existing credits. The professors are also generally great. A select few are unlikable to all and there are many instructors that cater to different learning styles.... Read 4,668 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Hampden-sydney, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  164 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Hampden-Sydney College. As a full time student I had the time to participate in Division III athletics and work a part time job, all while creating friendships with my brothers, some of which have lasted after graduation. Hampden Sydney is a school that not only challenges you in your academic learning, but also challenges you to evaluate your views of the world and think critically. Hampden-Sydney's motto is to "create good men and good citizens", and it certainly lives up to said mantra. The only things I would criticize would be the infamously horrible food from Thompson Hospitality in the commons, which is jokingly referred to as "the Moans" (use your imagination to figure out why), and the quality of some of the older dorms. However, I wouldn't trade my 4 years at HSC for the world.... Read 164 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $28,679

• SAT range 1080-1260

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,941 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman at George Mason University, I am impressed with the vibrant academic atmosphere and welcoming community. The faculty here is dedicated and passionate, always encouraging critical thinking and growth. The diverse student body fosters an inclusive environment, allowing for enriching discussions and broadening my perspectives. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing excellent resources for both studying and extracurricular activities. The blend of rigorous academics and a supportive network of peers makes this university an ideal place to thrive and succeed. I am excited for the endless opportunities and the promising future that GMU promises!... Read 4,941 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Wise, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  246 reviews

Junior: Academically, the college lacks consistency. Certain programs, such as general education requirements, lack substantial teaching and learning. However, other areas of academics, for example, Biology, are vast and difficult. This disconnect in academics negatively effects my peers and I’s ability to preform consistently academically as-well. The smaller size of campus and student body aids to facilitate a familial and belonging feeling. Despite the low number of students, social events are happening frequently to foster community. I have learned factually, socially, and internally with my time at UVA-Wise, so overall the experience has been beneficial. Issues with the school would include a lack of diversity, small local community outside the campus, and fluctuations in academics. However, with adversity comes resilience and ability to foster change.... Read 246 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $10,193

• SAT range 990-1230

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  868 reviews

Junior: I am thrilled to share my experience as a student at MU. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I had found the perfect institution for my educational aspirations. MU is an extraordinary place that truly embodies excellence in education, fostering personal growth, and nurturing a vibrant community. One of the standout features of MU is its exceptional faculty. The profs are not only highly knowledgeable and accomplished in their fields but also deeply passionate about teaching. They go above and beyond to create an engaging and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging students to think critically and explore their full potential. The dedication of the faculty to student success is evident in their accessibility and willingness to provide guidance and support both inside and outside the class. MU offers a wide array of clubs, org, and extrac activities that cater to various interests, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop leadership skills.... Read 868 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,717

• SAT range 970-1170

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  358 reviews

Sophomore: Eastern Mennonite University is a small liberal arts school, and most of its strengths and challenges come from this title. I have had a wonderful time interacting with professors and scheduling meetings 1-on-1 to talk about assignments and life in general. The opportunities to get involved in clubs and extracurriculars are extensive, and I have felt a general openness and optimism towards new ideas on campus. EMU's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee works very hard to listen to each other's needs and the needs of campus. Grants are distributed to students who want to make a difference, and present their proposals to the committee. Funding is a struggle at EMU, however. Because of its religious background, many alum donating money to the school are religious and sometimes unsupportive of the more progressive ideas and programs that are being put in place. There is also simply a smaller group of donors than a larger school, and so upkeep of older buildings is not maintained.... Read 358 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $23,936

• SAT range 1040-1590

• Fredericksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.14 out of 5  1,294 reviews

Senior: Atmosphere - A nice, friendly school with chill students and kind faculty Party - This is not a party school. This is a school for introverted nerds. Professors - Competent at what they do and will work with you to help you succeed. Tuition - Expensive. Apply EARLY to FASFA! Campus - Small, about 20 minute walk from each side. Very beautiful with nice classrooms. Not much to do on campus but there are ways to find entertainment through clubs and other activities. Dorms - Sardine box. Surrounding Area - A nice area, if you have a car, or don't mind taking the bus or walking about 30 minutes to historic downtown. Historic downtown is very nice. Tutoring - There are tutors available who will happily help you, but you need to schedule with them. Some students will agree to form a study group, some won't, really just depends. Remember: shy introverts. Health Services - Very good for what they are. You can walk to the local hospital.... Read 1,294 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $21,901

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Winchester, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  880 reviews

Graduate Student: I received my Masters in Education and a Graduate Certificate from SU. I had a wonderful experience; my professors were knowledgeable, helpful, and very personable. My classes were focused, and really helped me make strides in my professional competency. Personally, I have made many lifelong friends at SU, and there are always tons of activities for student life. I can’t wait to start my Doctorate in Pharmacy Studies at Shenandoah!... Read 880 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $29,077

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Salem, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  764 reviews

Senior: Don't get me wrong, Roanoke has its downfalls— many of the residential halls drastically need to be redone, and communication between offices is lacking. HOWEVER, going to college here is the best decision I could've made. Most of the professors and staff members are excellent. They love what they do and genuinely care about the students. The classes are definitely challenging but are obtainable with hard work. The people are great! I've met so many people from so many different walks of life at this school. Greek life is a huge part of campus and you can usually find an event happening Wednesday to Sunday each week, but no one cares if you're a member or not. This school is great for getting out of your comfort zone, getting to meet new people, and learning lots. I feel throughly prepared for life after graduation.... Read 764 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $27,758

• SAT range 1080-1230

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,294 reviews

Senior: CNU has a wonderful variety of classes! I will say not all of the professors are the greatest, as some are very old school and some really would be better not teaching freshmen or sophomores, (due to them trying to teach us at a grad student level which is what they are likely used to), but I have had many wonderful professors as well! The science building is so clean and has very up to date equipment. The campus is very close together so going from class to class isn't too much of a hike.... Read 1,294 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,059

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  707 reviews

Sophomore: I am in love with the small campus atmosphere, individual attention from professors who care about you as a person, and the ease to get involved in the campus community. There is genuinely a place for everyone and so much support so long as you reach out for it!... Read 707 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $27,305

• SAT range 970-1170

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,601 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Old Dominion University was a very positive one. First, the my courses were interesting and focused on being applicable outside of the classroom. Second, the professors are both knowledgeable and helpful. They want to see you succeed and will help however they can. Third, the school promotes fantastic diversity. It acts as a safe environment for people from all backgrounds to express their personal beliefs and encourages dialogue between students. Fourth, the school has just finished a new football stadium. Athletics at ODU are a great time and while they might not be as big as some other universities, it acts as a real point of unification for students, alumni, faculty, and the local community. Finally, the student life at the school is whatever you want to make of it. If you want to be apart of Greek Life, there are tons of options for you. If you want to be involved in the local community or student affairs there is that too!... Read 4,601 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,646 reviews

Senior: This university has a beautiful campus and solid programs that strive to teach and promote curiousity and success. Overall, my experience at Radford has been positive and one that will help influence my life and career decisions. However, there are specific changes that I would reccomend for the future: the housing process, safety on campus, and being heard by the people in charge. The housing process has a few too many hoops to jump through and getting a desirable placement is almost impossible. Furthermore, issues with roommates or suitemates are never handled correctly as a result of RA and RD incompetence. On campus, safety is felt throughout, but a lack of information in unsafe situations leaves everyone with too many questions than answers. The people in positions of power in this campus do a great deal to be accessable, but do not take the suggestions or complaints given to heart. Not enough to instill a feeling of satisfaction in those who have genuine problems.... Read 1,646 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Roanoke, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  548 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Hollins was exactly what I dreamed it would be. I had always wanted a more quaint, peaceful college experience, and HU encapsulates that to the highest degree. I loved the small class sizes, relationship-building with classmates, and intentionality from all staff. I loved that I am not a test score or a number, but a person seen for my interests, personality, and passions. I loved the classes I took, and I was also provided many great opportunities, like being able to work in the president's office, speak on panels, and become an RA. It is a safe, beautiful campus full of nature and the strength of the women who came before. There are also lots of little lounges hidden around campus, which I love! The things I would change would be the quality of the food and housing. With how much is paid, the lack of variety/quality in food and the housing on campus without AC in August doesn't feel fair, especially as students are required to have a meal plan and live on campus.... Read 548 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $23,825

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,178 reviews

Freshman: The campus is beautiful and well maintained. While the school dates to 1839, the campus has a "new feel". Longwood's staff is welcoming and engaged. Admissions, Housing, Financial Aid, Advisors, and Deans as well as professors all made me feel welcome. I've enjoyed meeting other students and getting involved in clubs and on-campus organizations. I am part of the Cormier Honors College which provides additional perks and benefits, as well as positive academic challenges. Dorms are air-conditioned, but not always cool. Common areas are nice! Some dorms have thicker walls while others have thinner walls, but some have newer and some have older bathrooms, overall, everything in the dorms is in good shape. I wish there were more "freshly cooked" items in the dining hall. For example, I love the omelets made to order, but scrambled eggs aren't great. I love the "all you can eat" option and meal exchange program! I love that there are fun and memorable traditions!... Read 1,178 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $21,166

• SAT range 1030-1170

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  1,542 reviews

Freshman: Norfolk State is a public university that offers 31 bachelor’s degree programs to nearly 5,000 undergraduates in Virginia. All first-year students are required to attend the Spartan Seminar Series, which helps ease the transition to college learning through courses that delve into academic discipline-based concepts, critical thinking, and social science research methodologies. Other available resources include tutoring and supplemental instruction via the Student Success Center, a Writing Center, and the use of microcredential digital badges, which identify achievements in certain competencies and professional skills through activities and achievements. First-year students have the option to join... Read 1,542 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $12,264

• SAT range 860-1050

• Emory, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  257 reviews

Sophomore: I love E&H! It's set in a beautiful mountain location, in close driving distance from anything a college student could need (Walmart and Starbucks) and offers a close-knit community where I feel safe and connected.... Read 257 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $19,797

• SAT range 960-1150

• Ferrum, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  383 reviews

Junior: The instructors are helpful and go above and beyond. They will take the time to work individually with a student that has questions or needs help. The students are friendly and down to earth. There are alot of sports you can participate in and there are alot of activities on campus for the students. Because there are not alot of things to do off campus, the school has activities to keep the students engaged. the financial aid office and the student accts office are also very friendly and very willing to help with questions. They make appointments if they are busy and their customer services is awesome!... Read 383 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $22,278

• SAT range 920-1180

• Bridgewater, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  455 reviews

Alum: Bridgewater College is a small liberal arts institution of higher education. It was founded as a teachers college in 1880. BC has changed a lot in the years since it was Spring Creek Normal School, but it has remained true to its roots as the first co educational institution in the state of Virginia. Bridgewater has a mostly residential campus with a small student body hovering around 1600. Bridgewater has small class sizes, and professors that are committed to the growth of the students. The smaller class sizes allow the professors and the students to get to know each other. Even though Bridgewater College is a small institution, they have a wide variety of activities for students. With many clubs and organizations, outdoor programs, intramural sports, and even research opportunities. Bridgewater competes at the NCAA Division 3 level, fielding 22 intercollegiate teams.... Read 455 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,592

• SAT range 1010-1250